Leica M-E Typ 220 vs Olympus E-PL3

Here is a extensive assessment of the Leica M-E Typ 220 and Olympus E-PL3, former being a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Leica and Olympus. There exists a substantial gap among the image resolutions of the M-E Typ 220 (18MP) and E-PL3 (12MP) and the M-E Typ 220 (Full frame) and E-PL3 (Four Thirds) boast different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The M-E Typ 220 was manufactured 13 months later than the E-PL3 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving into a detailed comparison, here is a quick summary of how the M-E Typ 220 matches up versus the E-PL3 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M-E Typ 220 & Olympus PEN E-PL3. The entire galleries are viewable at Leica M-E Typ 220 Gallery & Olympus E-PL3 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera regularly, you need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Leica M-E Typ 220 has external measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") with a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-PL3 has measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") having a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs).

Look at the Leica M-E Typ 220 and Olympus E-PL3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using at that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the M-E Typ 220 versus the E-PL3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the M-E Typ 220 and E-PL3 is 79 and 88 respectively.

Normally, it is very hard to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing only by researching specs. The graphic below might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the M-E Typ 220 and E-PL3.

All in all, the two cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The M-E Typ 220 due to its bigger sensor is going to make getting bokeh less difficult and the Leica M-E Typ 220 will render greater detail due to its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The more modern M-E Typ 220 should have an advantage in sensor technology.